Motorists in the North East are being urged to take a second look for motorbikes on the back of statistics showing that during the past year the number of biker collisions and fatalities has risen across the region.
During the last five years, more than half of all motorcycle collisions in the region resulted in the biker’s death or serious injury – with many caused by a simple failure to look properly by either the biker or driver.
With 71% of these biker collisions taking place on urban roads, Road Safety GB North East (RSGB NE) is launching a new campaign with the emergency services aimed at helping to keep riders safe.
Peter Slater, chair of RSGB NE, said: “During spring and summer more bikers are likely to be out on the roads, leading to an increased risk of casualties.
“As we see more bikes out on the roads, we are urging all motorists to be vigilant, especially when it comes to junctions as we know that almost two thirds of collisions involving urban bikers occur within 20m of a junction, often at T or staggered junctions.
“Bikers account for less than 1% of vehicle miles travelled on the region’s roads, but they account for 18% of those that are killed or seriously injured, so there is much more that we can do.
“Sometimes drivers simply do not see bikers, so we are appealing to all road-users – take a second look for bikes and always look over your shoulder before pulling out.”
Biker Darren Edwards, from Crook in County Durham, is featuring in a campaign video for RSGB NE, after witnessing so many risky manoeuvres from both drivers and bikers over the years. He said people needed to take responsibility when on the roads.
“Always ride within your means, conditions and skills,” said Darren.
“Even when you’re out riding in a group, don’t try to do what others do. Be your own rider and put your safety first. Be mindful that other road-users won’t always see you, so you have to try to see them first.
“I would just appeal to drivers to think about bikers when they’re out and about. Always give a second glance to make sure the road is clear.”
Data shows that between 2020-2024, there were 1,467 biker collisions on the region’s roads, with 63 motorcyclists killed, 742 seriously injured, and 662 slightly injured.
Sgt Mark Kewley, from Cleveland Police’s Matrix Team, said: “We don’t want any journey to end in tragedy and with the better weather more people are out using the roads. It’s everyone’s responsibility to drive or ride as safely as possible to help reduce the number of serious and fatal collisions on the roads and within our communities.”
The latest figures show that a large percentage of casualties are caused by a failure to look, by either the biker or driver, or because the motorcyclist lost control of the bike. Two thirds of motorcyclists injured on urban roads were also under the age of 35 years.
Kevin Bell, community safety manager at County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CCDFRS), said: “We’re appealing for drivers to take a second look for motorbikes – particularly at junctions and when overtaking – because it could save a life.
“Motorcyclists are more vulnerable on the road than those driving larger vehicles and accidents can lead to serious injuries or can be fatal.
“We urge bikers to always wear a helmet that meets British Safety Standards, along with protective, high-visibility clothing. Maintain your bike and check the tyres are in good condition before setting off, and scan the road ahead for hazards, slow down and ride for the conditions of the roads.”
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